How to sheathe a house in the German style. German houses: design and construction

An American, having moved to Germany, wrote an interesting post about the difference in housing arrangements between American and German houses -. Sometimes some things only amaze an American (such as a hanging toilet), but sometimes they surprise me too (roller shutters down throughout the house, regardless of the time of year or day).

German houses are not usually built with brick or wood, but with metal rebar and sand/limestone mix. Outside and inside the walls are covered with plaster and paint (outside - usually yellow, inside - white). Wallpaper is not used due to high humidity. American houses, usually built of wood/plywood, do not require a signal amplifier to wireless wifi. In a German home, it is required.

In Germany, they prefer to rent a house, rather than having their own. For example, in Berlin, more than 80% of people live in rented housing. Perhaps this is due to a lack of funds (the salary is small and you don’t want to be bound by a loan), or perhaps people do not see their future in this city and want to have freedom of choice and movement. If in America it is common to rent housing for a period of 1 year, then in Germany the minimum period is usually 3 years. The more, the more convenient for the landlord.

AT german houses usually there is no central air conditioning and heating system (grilles in the ceiling and on the floor). With the American hot climate and high humidity, constant air conditioning is a must. But Germany is located to the north, it is enough to ventilate the rooms here. Although in old German houses, which are already several centuries old, there is often stubborn mold. The Germans may use small household fans. In cold weather, houses are heated with hot water, which is supplied to radiators on the wall or under the floor ("warm floors"). The heating level can be adjusted independently. No wonder Germans use less electricity than Americans.

Heating under the window. Balcony door made entirely of glass

But there are light motion sensors that save electricity. For example, they work near the entrance, in the corridor, in the basement.

It was a revelation to Americans that windows could be opened vertically. Sometimes they write on forums that they broke a window in a rented apartment and ask how to fix it and what to say to the landlord. Also, the Americans are puzzled why the Germans do not insert insect screens into all windows. It's just that in Germany all sorts of chemicals are sprayed from helicopters in swampy areas so that mosquitoes do not breed. There really are almost none. Summer night turns into torture for Americans, as all the moths and bugs fly from the darkness to the bright house. The battle between fresh air and lack of insects. Once an American woke up from the fact that a grasshopper was sitting on his chest.

In German houses, roller shutters (metal, wooden, plastic) are usually built into each room. They will be everywhere, except for the windows of the bathroom and toilet. Among Americans, such strong window fortifications are found on the East Coast or in the southern states, where hurricanes are frequent and windows need to be saved from strong wind and flying debris. Or with the help of thick blinds in the south they escape from the sizzling sun. Americans are wondering why such powerful blinds are needed where there are no hurricanes and the hot south? Versions under consideration:

So that at night the light from street lamps does not interfere with sleep (but the blinds are lowered at night in all rooms);
- so that in winter, leaving the house, to keep it warm (but modern double windows and thermal insulation of the walls perfectly retain heat);
- in order to keep the house cool in the summer (the Germans are afraid of drafts, so they do not ventilate the house in this way in the summer);
- so that the glare of light does not fall on the TV screen;
- to keep their private life secret (it seems to them that 60% of the time the neighbors look out of their windows);
- to feel safe (it seems to the Americans that the Germans thus prepared for the zombie apocalypse);
- perhaps this is a memory of the time when in July 1939 an instruction was issued on the need to tightly close the windows with blankets at night so that the light from inside the house was not visible.
- perhaps there is no logic here. Enough habit that my mother and grandmother did this.

For example, in Holland they rarely curtain their windows, rather they try to decorate them with orchids, lighthouses, seagulls ... The Dutch like to live without curtains, as if demonstrating to all people that they have nothing to hide. Perhaps the Dutch like to look out the window more often than the TV. Perhaps this is their favorite TV program. Or maybe the Dutch just love the sun and don't like to turn their houses into underground spaces where no light can penetrate.

Dutch house in the evening.

Window shutters are what most surprise Americans in Germany. But those shutters on century-old buildings never close.

Usually residential buildings in German towns look like this day and night:

Maybe this is an echo of the war and it seems to them that a sniper is sitting on the roof? But the whole of Europe was at war.

When you move into a rented apartment, you need to be prepared for the fact that instead of lighting in the rooms there will be only wires. buy light bulbs lighting and you have to install them yourself. For example, for the first time, two table lamps brought with us helped us out a lot ..

Americans are surprised that German toilets have not one but two flush buttons and they are different! In the US, older toilets use 13.6 liters of water to flush, newer ultra-low-flow toilets use 6 liters. In Germany, pressing a large button uses 7.5 liters of water, and a small one - 3.8 liters.
Also for Americans, the design is amazing wall hung toilet. They are used to having it attached to the floor. And it’s also surprising to Americans that there is a brush in the toilet ...

Americans are used to the fact that in the kitchen a two-door refrigerator with a minimum height of 1.8 m is waiting for them, a huge oven and a large space for utensils and creativity. German cuisine disappoints them in this regard. Not all rented German houses have kitchen furniture, and if there is, then it is not at all "American" in size. When baking a turkey in a German oven, the Americans even have to cut off its legs, otherwise it simply does not fit inside.

Usually, at the entrance to a rented apartment, new tenants in the kitchen expect only the possibility of connecting water and electric wires. The previous tenants will even take the sink and countertop with them (most likely, because of its size, it will be useless in a new place, but here the Germans are driven not by logic, but by a sense of justice - you didn’t pay them for this kitchen). Typically, tenants buy kitchen furniture on their own or buy it cheaply from previous tenants who moved out (fortunately, they rarely move in Germany).

What does a typical American stove look like:

What does the kitchen look like in a rented German apartment (a small elevation on the left is a refrigerator):

Now I'm starting to understand why the Germans go to the store every day ... They simply do not fit anything at home. However, from the previous post, you already understood that the Germans prefer not to cook at home, they eat ready-made food that needs to be warmed up as much as possible (What do they eat in Germany? and).

German built-in oven:

What did the Americans do first? Of course we bought new refrigerator! True, they did not measure in advance the doorway of the closet where they intended to put him, but he climbed in anyway:

The storage room inside the apartment is often used to install an additional refrigerator or freezer. At our house, for example, there is a place for connecting washing machine. Also, usually a basement is supposed to be attached to the apartment, where you can store bicycles, skis, rods and whatever your heart desires (except for combustible and flammable items). Yes, when moving, the Germans will also take the dryer and washing machine with them.

If in America a large and beautiful space is accepted in front of the house, then the Germans have the opposite: there will be a rather small space in front of the house, and all the beauty will be behind the house, away from prying eyes. Even apartment buildings in Germany, ugly from the street, will have a pretty patio. Perhaps this is because the Germans do not want to "show off" their beautiful yards, while the Americans, on the contrary, like to look attractive. Usually in the backyards, the Germans cook sausages and fry meat.

In American homes, it is customary to make wall niches that can be closed, which can be conveniently used as dressing rooms or pantries. They will be present even in the smallest apartments in New York:

In Germany, instead of such niches, they buy furniture where they hang and fold clothes. Americans believe that cabinets are what Ikea does its main business in Germany.

Americans are accustomed to having large furniture in their big houses. But it simply won't fit in the comparatively smaller German apartments. For example, this large dining table for 10 people and chairs had to be sold to the Americans before moving to Germany:

Of course, there were still difficulties in finding an adapter for equipment designed for a different mains voltage. For example, electronics bought in Germany will not work in the US unless adapters or transformers are used. Therefore, those who leave Europe for America usually sell all their equipment through websites at low prices. This is very convenient for those who move to Germany and do not want to invest a fortune in the purchase of new equipment. The EU electrical plug is different from the US one (2 small round pins vs 2 small flat prongs). Things that usually don't work from the US: TVs, irons, hair dryers, coffee pots, electric shavers, lamps, etc.

I'll add on my own:

If the house is old, post-war construction, most likely the bathroom will only have a shower. But with a modern renovation, everything looks pretty:

In old houses, the division of rooms into a kitchen and a dining room has been preserved, i.e. they don’t eat in the kitchen, they only cook (however, as in the pre-revolutionary houses of Moscow and St. Petersburg).

Small German kitchen. Cooking here:

Here they eat:

In the kitchen, you can only have a bite to eat, sitting at this impromptu table on high bar stools:

The central place in the living room is occupied by a TV (each room of the German house has a TV outlet). For example, our neighbors watch TV as if on schedule - every day from 18:00 to 22:00. Then they lower their blinds and you can't hear them. His barbell continues to lie in the shed, her bike is there. It seems that in their life there is only home and work.

The German bedroom differs from others in that an additional switch will be arranged above the bed. Americans are surprised that in Germany there are big switches, not in the form of a lever. Very often, even on a double bed there will be two separate blankets (and not one large one) and there will be no bedspread on top (this is a wonder for the Germans). Terry stretch sheets are often used.

For some reason, the Germans avoid eating on the balconies, although they buy flowers, trees and beautiful furniture there.

The balcony in Holland is literally created for lunches and dinners:

Nice balconies in Heidelberg.

What are German houses -

Between all existing architectural trends, the German style attracts strong attention, which is often used in today's construction when decorating the facade parts of a building. For this style characterized by restraint and grace, uncomplicated forms.

Looking at such a facade, there is an unfeigned feeling of the fundamental nature of the house and home comfort. The demand for the German style is also greatly facilitated by the fact that it is permissible to arrange it even on a finished building. Recalling the diligence and scrupulousness of the Germans, we can say that for the design of the facade in german style You won't need a lot of materials. The German style can be noted as very economical, only at the same time it is known for its rationality and originality of decoration.

Its decorative details stand out for their unpretentiousness and restraint. In the German style, bright colors, statues, intricate decorations and designs should not be used. Rationality will be the main principle. The color palette of the German style is quite limited too.

How to make a facade in the German style.

How to form a German-style wall and roof? The figure of the mansion should become classic - square or rectangular. However, some protruding elements will also be quite possible, thanks to which the living space of the building increases. The texture of the walls in the German style should be even. Regarding the roof, it is usually formed as a gable, the recommended colors are brown. If you intend to copy the German style as accurately as possible on the facade of your own home, then it is better to lay tiles on the roof. The plinth is decorated with natural stone. German-style lofts are rare. Small balconies are considered to replace them. Given these technological factors, you have the opportunity to add a thoroughbred and representative look to the facade of your home.

Decoration of windows and doors. Conditions in this segment are quite considerable. First of all, you need to remember that Entrance door in the German style is the "highlight" of the facade. She must attract attention and stand out from the crowd. German-style windows are traditionally rectangular, although in some cases they may be arched. hallmark in addition, there will be the formation of multi-section windows, when the glasses are interconnected by numerous jumpers. In addition, the windows are decorated with wooden shutters, which perform only a decorative function, giving the cottage a lived-in and equipped look.

Types of facades of houses: Gothic house and half-timbered houses.

Fachwerk houses. Fachwerk is a famous style of German architecture. A characteristic feature of such buildings will be the creation of a vertical frame with longitudinal beams and diagonal braces. It is also characterized by figured beam structures. They are painted in colors that contrast with the shade of the walls, giving the building a spectacular and aesthetic appearance. Curved beams in combination with natural stone cladding or plaster look exceptionally aesthetically pleasing on the walls.

Gothic houses. Houses that are stylized as Gothic are always distinguished by originality. In the photographs, such buildings look like real medieval castles. This is facilitated by a cone-shaped roof and vertically elongated windows, which visually make the whole structure taller and more representative. Brick columns complete the image of the Gothic house. They will be needed not only for decoration, but also perform a utilitarian function - they hold the roof of the veranda.

A German-style cottage is fashionable, original, and elegant. Each building will be unique, but at the same time so recognizable!

Monday, 25 February 2019 12:00

romario

Recently, when building a house, much attention has been paid to its appearance. And it's not just about interior decoration – great importance also has an exterior design of the house.

Do not forget about the facade, because modern designers can offer a huge number of solutions that will be able to make your home truly original. It should be noted that in the German style are quite rare. The facade of the house will emphasize the taste, features and habits of the owner. If you are determined that you want to make your home unique with a facade, then you will need to decide on its style, and then on the material. When choosing a style, you should pay attention to the surrounding area: if the houses nearby have a design different from your facade, then no matter how beautiful it is, it will not fit well into the overall picture. After you decide on all the points, you can get to work.

One of the best solutions for house facades is a modest and original German style. We note that German architecture has always been famous for its attractive appearance and economy. That is, for finishing you do not need a lot of material.
Such houses are usually built in the form of a rectangle or square, thereby achieving a rich appearance. But further, the German style is not distinguished by a smooth surface: since ancient times, decorative stone has been used for home improvement, which, by the way, is a key material. Now in Germany you can often find houses in which the basement is lined with this stone.
Windows are made in the form of rectangles or arches. The windows are divided by small jumpers into several sections. Doors are selected depending on the color of the decorative stone. The roof, as a rule, is also painted in a color similar to the facade.
Here it is worth noting an important point: any house, no matter how it was originally built, can be converted to the German style. The most important thing is to choose the right building material of a certain color.

Fachwerk style is the latest fashion trend for the construction of residential buildings. The peculiarity of this style is that small boards are installed vertically, horizontally and diagonally throughout the house, which create an imitation of wooden beams. It is worth noting that the creation of such a style often costs the owners a pretty penny. It is also recommended to contact professional designer that can create a great style to match your home.

Of the advantages, it is worth noting that such houses will always stand out with originality. Wooden boards are quite easy to assemble, because they are quite light and are assembled according to the type of designer. Each individual house has its own dimensions, so the boards are made to order.
However, a German-style half-timbered house still has a couple of drawbacks:

the design is short-lived - it will last you about 20 years, after which it will have to be replaced;
imitating beams create poor thermal insulation.

But if you think about it then modern technologies do not stand still, and perhaps in a few years half-timbered houses will completely lose their shortcomings. Even though they are so small. You can also experiment by adopting some small features from such styles as, and "hi-tech". This will allow you to create a truly unique and inimitable facade.

Today, many are tired of the noise of city life and seek to buy or build housing outside the city. If you have purchased a suburban area and are planning to start building there, pay attention to the german style house.

German style house facade

The house, built in the German style, is distinguished by the rigor and simplicity of details, the rationality and practicality of the appearance of the building. On the facades of houses in the German style there are no pretentious elements and other sculptural decorations.

Today, one of the most popular German architectural styles is that which is characterized by vertical frame structures, diagonal braces and horizontal beams. Moreover, beam structures are most often made in contrasting shades compared to the main background of the building. On the facades of German-style houses, half-timbered elements are perfectly combined with natural or artificial stone trim.

German style may contain elements. Such houses with pointed roofs and vertical elongated windows look catchy and outstanding. A one-story house with a German-style veranda often has columns that not only have a decorative function, but also serve as a reliable support for the roof of the veranda.

The German-style house with protruding bay windows looks great. At their expense, the house increases living space, and bay windows glazed around the entire perimeter of the building serve as a wonderful decoration for the house.

Interior decoration of the house in the German style

The interior design of the rooms of the house in the German style is practical and reliable. The rooms are light, as the German style suggests the presence of large windows and even glazed roofs.

The German interior is dominated by muted, calm and warm tones. The combination of a dark floor and light walls is considered traditional.

Furniture for a German-style room is distinguished by practicality, accuracy and high quality workmanship. Only natural and simple materials are used for its production.

Since ancient times, German architecture has been famous for its beauty and practicality. As in other countries, it has come a long way from Romanesque and Gothic to high-tech, from castles and half-timbered buildings to ultra-modern buildings. Due to its solidity and economy, German architecture has become the epitome of high quality and rationality. Some elements ancient houses- for example, fachwerk - is still used in the construction of modern buildings. And university students study the works of the famous German designer Ernst Neufert and follow in their work the standards and patterns he found.

House with imitation fachwerk on the facade

The 20th century was a turning point in the history of Germany in general, and in particular in design and architecture, marking a consistent departure from the classics. With the advent of the Bauhaus school in the 1920s, modernism gradually supplanted other architectural styles. The architects abandoned the ornament on the facades, simplified the shape of the buildings, subordinating it to the function. These principles were also reflected in post-war architecture, when designers deliberately avoided any historical analogies and preferred to create "from scratch". The practicality of the building and its efficiency, both during construction and during operation, came to the fore. Architects are actively exploring new materials and technologies to improve energy efficiency and manage the home with ease. In recent decades, projects of "smart" houses with the use of automation and computer technology have been increasingly developed.

The architecture of a private house combines traditional and modern elements: the simple form of the building and gable roof appeared in a new interpretation, and zinc roofing, which has long been known in construction, has spread to the entire surface of the house. Klaus Schlossen Architekten

1. Distinctive features of the German house

Private architecture in Germany is quite diverse. As in Russia, here you can find both ultra-modern buildings and quite traditional buildings. In addition, many cities with old houses, which were reconstructed in connection with the new realities of life. If we talk about newly built buildings, then most of them are being built according to standard designs.

Many residents of Germany live in individual cottages in small towns, and go to work in the nearest metropolis. There are both single-family houses (Einfamilienhaus) and duplexes (Zweifamilienhaus). Having studied the German catalogs of private houses for the middle class, we can note general principles designing modern suburban housing in Germany. Practicality, economy, rationality - these features that distinguish the entire German architecture as a whole underlie each private project. This approach is manifested both in planning and facade solutions.

The structure of the German house is simple and concise. No frills, no impractical and economically unjustified decorations and architectural elements:

The shape of the houses is close to a square; additional volumes are often attached to it. This can be an entrance group that forms a balcony on the second floor, or a garage attached to the house or connected to it by a covered terrace;

The building consists of two floors, or one floor with an attic;

The roof is most often gable (sometimes four-slope);

There are no turrets in the architecture of the house, but there are bay windows and balconies.

The plan of the building forms a rectangle. It is complemented by the volume of the entrance group, which serves as a balcony on the second floor. Kampa

The project from the "ABC of Construction". Architect Alexey Kilevnik.

The style of a modern house relies heavily on the principles inherent in functionalism and minimalism. Unlike traditional German half-timbered architecture, functionalism implies a complete absence of rigid canons and the use of new possibilities of modern building materials. The main attention is paid to the function of this or that element. The form is determined by the function, and the facade is determined by the form.

Similar principles are declared in minimalism. Buildings in this style, as a rule, are built according to individual projects, and are more expressive. Ease of execution, lack of decor and embellishments, natural materials in the decoration, a single color scheme, simple geometric shapes- these are features style. Particular attention is paid to the effects associated with natural light. Therefore, cottages in this style are characterized by the presence of windows on the entire wall and flat roofs with glass pieces.

All this is reflected in the facade solutions of German houses, among which common features can be distinguished:

- balconies, terraces, awnings, large roof extensions, which provide a variety of facade solutions that give the building individuality;

The additional volume of the loggia gives expressiveness to a building that is simple in form. Juretzka Architekten

- large glazing areas, corner and panoramic windows, double-height glazing;

A large area of glazing makes a typical rural house a striking example of modern private architecture. Landau+Kindelbacher

Lack of decor on the facade;

The use of large undivided planes of a homogeneous material or one color;

Light textured plaster and black wooden planken form an expressive contrast. Drevohaus

Space-planning solutions correspond to the structure of the house and are built according to general principles:

The living room and dining room, as a rule, are combined into a single space;

The kitchen is most often not isolated by solid partitions, but is separated from the common space by a piece of furniture (bar counter, shelving) or a decorative wall. The absence of partitions and corridors, the combination of several functional areas in one space creates a feeling of spaciousness, saves usable space. As a result, prerequisites for interesting interior solutions arise;

A single space of the kitchen-living room in the interior. Landau+Kindelbacher

The total area of the three main functional areas of the main room (living room + dining room + kitchen) is approximately 40-70 m2;

The entrance block is separated by partitions (entrance hall, toilet, wardrobe, stairs);

Ground floor plan in typical house. Kampa

The apparent dryness of rectangular spaces is often enriched with rectangular bay windows - both on one floor and double-height;

On the second floor there are traditionally private apartments (bedrooms, office, bathroom, wardrobe);

All rooms are separated by partitions, most often of a broken shape, for the functional arrangement of furniture, equipment and more efficient use of space;

In the layout of the building you can find all the characteristic features of a German house. Most of the first floor is occupied by the combined space of the kitchen, dining room and living room. A single-flight staircase leads to the second floor. The complex shape of the bedroom and bathroom allows you to divide the premises into functional areas. Drevohaus

To move between floors, a single-flight staircase is often used, and a spacious illuminated staircase hall is arranged on the second floor.

A single-flight staircase leads to a lighted hall on the second floor. Klaus Schlossen Architekten

2. Building a house according to a German project

German practicality and rationality often attract future homeowners from Russia. Simple and discreet, and at the same time very functional houses in German style are very popular. How promising foreign projects are and how they take root on Russian soil is clearly demonstrated by the history of the construction of the “German” house by the Azbuka Stroitelstva company.

House project

The project of a cottage with a total area of 219 m2, created by a German architectural and construction bureau, interested our potential customer. In 2009, he took photographs of the exterior and interior of an exhibition model in Germany and turned to the ABC of Construction with a request to develop an AR (architectural section) and a KR (constructive section) and subsequently build a house according to this project.

Having studied the photographic materials, our specialists analyzed the architectural and space-planning solutions of the cottage, which the customer liked so much. Rectangular in plan, the cottage is crowned with a traditional gable hip roof. Symmetrical facades attract with their purity and clarity. The French windows of the first and second floors lined up in one line give lightness to the end facades with hip gables. On the second floor, the windows are decorated with a metal balcony railing.

Exhibition sample of a German house. Corner rustications in the color of white frontal boards, window and door frames make the facades festive and elegant.

The "visiting card" of the project is two symmetrically located volumes that adjoin the rear facade and together create a U-shaped composition. This is a glazed room of the winter garden, combined with a living room, and a covered terrace, access to which is designed from the dining room. With their proportions and the shape of the roof, the extensions repeat the canopy over the porch of the main entrance and form a small patio between them - an isolated cozy space for outdoor family recreation.

A distinctive feature of the layout of the cottage is a light translucent staircase located in the center of the house. This planning "highlight" attracted the attention of the customer.

As the main compositional dominant, the staircase conditionally builds the boundaries of the main functional areas: the hall, kitchen, dining room, living room, while providing a view of the entire space. Thanks to light and openwork structures and a wide stair hatch, the hall on the second floor is clearly visible and becomes part of the overall volume, visually expanding it.

An openwork staircase located in the center of the building provides a through view of the entire front space.

As planned by the designers, the staircase does not adjoin the supporting structures and partitions of the building. Like a sculpture, it can be freely walked around from all sides. Thus, the functional object has turned into a kind of core of the house, around which revolve life processes literally and figuratively.

Lightness, airiness and additional volume to the two-height space of the living room are given by five window openings cut in the truncated roof gable. These windows also illuminate the staircase hall on the second floor. Such a detail makes the interior more diverse, and the facade of the building - rich and interesting.

The second floor is attic, but due to the sufficient height of the walls to the roof slope, the space is cozy and functional. The living quarters and bathrooms are equipped with sloped skylights, which not only saturate the space with daylight, but also noticeably enliven the interior.

Skylights make the space on the second floor bright and cozy.

Construction history

For various reasons, the "German" project was not implemented. But photographs of the cottage attracted another of our customers. These design solutions almost fully met his requirements and wishes for the organization of the internal space, the composition of the premises and the architecture of the building.

However, the customer wished to make some changes to the design and layout of the building in order to adapt the project to his needs, Russian climatic conditions and the existing building materials market. The construction process was preceded by the design stage, as a result of which the house underwent a number of changes.

The cold climate required a warm vestibule, which turned into a covered terrace of the main entrance. For the same reason, stained-glass glazing of the winter garden was abandoned, replacing it with walls with a large window opening. To increase the living space, I had to abandon the second light in the living room. In its place, an office appeared in the attic. For better lighting, five windows were combined into a continuous tape block.

Ribbon attic windows provide good insolation to the office.

The terrace adjoining the dining room also became warm. A home theater was set up in this room. At the request of the customer, in place of the living room on the first floor, our specialists designed a rest room with a steam room, a shower room and a bathroom. A small redevelopment also affected the group of technical premises.

Standard windows with a window sill height of 0.9 m instead of French ones - from floor to ceiling - helped to improve the heat engineering of the house, which is important in winter period. On the second floor, the height of the windows remained the same, but here they arranged a balcony with a wooden railing and access from two rooms. A ventilation unit lined with stone appeared on the facade of the house - it runs through outer wall technical room.

The end facade of the house has undergone changes: on the first floor, the height of the windows has decreased, and a balcony has appeared on the second.

Despite all these changes, our designers have retained the artistic image of the cottage, space-planning structure and, of course, main feature interior space - a sculptural staircase in the very center of the house. The construction of the building under this project was carried out by our company in 2010.

The end facade of the house has undergone changes: on the first floor, the height of the windows has decreased, and a balcony has appeared on the second.

For economic reasons and aesthetic preferences of the customer, our architects have shifted the decorative accents in the exterior of the house. Snow-white rustication and architraves were abandoned, and the expensive dark front brick of the outer walls was replaced with light-colored brick. At the same time, to preserve the contrast, window frames, frontal boards and drainage systems were made in dark colors. For more reliable operation of the roof c large quantity valleys and ribs, it was decided to replace the metal tiles with bituminous tiles.

Despite all these changes, our designers have retained the artistic image of the cottage, space-planning structure and, of course, the main feature of the interior space - a sculptural staircase in the very center of the house. The construction of the building under this project was carried out by our company in 2010.

Soon on our website we will present you new photos of the interiors of this house, as well as a video interview with its owners.

Currently, we are actively cooperating with the German architectural and construction bureau Anke Disterheft. Leading specialists and management of Azbuka Stroitelstva often visit Germany, where they exchange experience with German colleagues, improve their skills, study new technologies and materials in construction.

We have accumulated a large number of ideas for the design and construction of country houses based on German standards and technologies. a lot of original literature on German architecture. If you are interested in the material of this article, we are always waiting for you in the ABC of Construction.

Back in the distant 15th century, the first half-timbered houses in Germany were built. They combined elegant lightness along with reliable, warm and very durable housing. Over time, the style spread throughout Europe. That's how it was created appearance a large number of cities. Relatively recently, interest in this style has revived, and Russia has become no exception. It should be noted right away that there is a half-timbered house construction and facade decoration in the same style.

To build a half-timbered house, it is necessary to acquire certain skills in the construction of a rigid frame, braces and beams that could take on all the load-bearing loads, including the weight of the roof. After the frame is ready and installed on the foundation, the installation of the roof will be carried out, you can proceed to the next step. Now you need to fill the internal space of the frame. This can be done using different building materials. In the 15th century, rubble, stone and bricks were used for this. Today it is possible to use lighter materials with high thermal insulation properties.

As for the facade decoration in the half-timbered style, this is a kind of “make-up” of the finished house. For its device, as a rule, polyurethane false beams are used. In this article, you will learn how to build a half-timbered house, about the architectural features of such a structure. In addition, it will outline how to properly finish the facade under the fachwerk.

architectural features

The basis of the house is a power frame made of timber, steel or reinforced concrete. The structure is connected by horizontal beams, vertical racks, as well as oblique and diagonal braces. Outside, the frame is not masked, because this feature is the highlight of the style. The load-bearing elements seem to separate the facade of the building, giving it expressiveness.

In the past, the interframe space was filled with adobe. Now, for this, foam block, brick, aerated concrete, double-glazed windows and different types latest generation heater. Ideally, modern half-timbered houses are glazed up to 75%. But, in a harsh climate in the Russian lands, such construction is often unprofitable. As a result, wall decoration in the fachwerk style, with the use of overhead decorative elements, has become more widespread.

Note! The roof of the half-timbered house is made gable with wide overhangs, without an attic. This special design protects the structure from negative impact atmospheric adverse factors.

AT old days as roofing material used natural tiles. Nowadays, this material is very expensive, so most often. Building a half-timbered house with your own hands is quite realistic, the main thing is to study the design features and clearly follow the project.

The half-timbered house has a high energy efficiency. This is possible due to the use of modern heaters in construction. The advantages of the structure should also include stability and strength. The special design of the frame provides an opportunity to save on construction, because the walls need less brick or aerated concrete. In addition, the weight of the house is significantly reduced, which makes it possible to build it even on piles.

So, the parts of the frame should be assembled separately from each other. In their place, they, like a designer, are assembled using a lift. Most often, the basis of the design is a planed, polished glued beam, made from varieties of coniferous wood. It is treated with special antiseptic and antifungal agents, which protects the wood from temperature extremes, moisture, mold and insects. Sometimes metal beams are used for the frame. This only improves the strength of the house. However, its price will increase significantly, because metal is more expensive than wood.

Upon completion of the assembly of the wooden frame of the half-timbered house, the bars should be sanded and processed special formulations. After that, it is necessary to immediately carry out the installation of the roof. This will help strengthen the structure and protect it from precipitation. At the final stage, the empty space of the frame should be filled, after which you can proceed with the installation of windows and doors.

Like all types of building structures, half-timbered houses have undergone some changes. Modern features of the house are more focused on roof overhangs and massive beams. Wooden roundings are no longer used. Externally, the half-timbered house resembles a combination of timeless classic styles - Japanese and European. The use of large glasses led to the improvement of the style, which acquired a new name - glass fachwerk.

Note! You should not think that in glass house the half-timbered house will be cold, because energy-saving special double-glazed windows are used for its construction, which are made from low-emission glass with argon filling. Although outwardly, the house may seem fragile, in fact this impression is very deceptive.

The half-timbered glass house is saturated with light, which has a beneficial effect on the health and mood of its inhabitants. There is another modern materialused to fill the walls of a half-timbered house - these are cement-bonded particle boards (DSP). What's this? It is a rectangular sheet made from Portland cement and wood shavings. Special chemical compounds are added to it that protect against mold, fungus and moisture. DSP is relatively inexpensive, moreover, it has excellent sound and heat insulation properties. The material has low bending strength, however, it perfectly withstands longitudinal loads. And this makes it possible to strengthen the frame. Aerated concrete is also economical, it is very convenient to finish, has high thermal insulation characteristics.

Fachwerk style imitation

The house, which will be finished in half-timbered style, can be cinder block, brick or wooden. The most commonly used base material is polyurethane. Bars and boards are made from it, which can be distinguished from natural wood extremely difficult even at a short distance. This material is resistant to moisture, mold, precipitation and insects. It does not deform and does not crack. And the cost of polyurethane beams is much lower than that of their natural wood counterparts.

Fachwerk house facade decoration- this is perfect solution! Polyurethane boards are installed using liquid nails. Before you buy glue, take a look at the instructions. It is very important that liquid nails are suitable for outdoor work. After all, the glue must be resistant to temperature extremes and precipitation. To fit the joints and achieve a clear cut, use the end and circular saw. If you decide to fill the DSP frame, then the plates can be easily cut with a jigsaw or grinder. Paint the cut blanks with water-soluble or oil paints. After the DSP has dried, they can be screwed to the beams, filling the space between them. A house that is sheathed with panels is warmer, it has better soundproofing of the walls. This technology is great for sheathing houses made of bricks and blocks that have worn out a lot. An example of such half-timbered houses can be seen in the photo.

If you decide to make a half-timbered house with your own hands, then pre-plaster all the walls. After they are completely set, paint the walls in some light tone. To do this, use an acrylic emulsion. False beams should have a contrasting color, such as brown or black. Today, you can purchase a composition in a specialized store that gives the board a patina effect.

Note! All overhead parts should be opened with paint in 2-3 layers, dried, and only after that they can be attached to the wall according to the project drawing. It is not worth saving on paintwork materials. Otherwise, the house will have to be repainted every year!

If you decide to use natural boards as false beams, then treat them with antiseptics, and then paint them on both sides, including the ends.

The technology of the natural board finishing process

Before proceeding with the facade decoration, it is important to make a working drawing. To do this, check with authentic half-timbered houses.

Note! The layout of the imitation of beams should correspond as closely as possible to the principles of building half-timbered houses, because otherwise this idea loses all meaning. The panels that fill the frame are tied to the structure of the house.

Beams, braces, crossbars, top and bottom trim should look like carriers. In no case should they be allowed to look like decorative elements.

To do the job, you will need the following tool:

Roulette and level.
Electric drill.
Marker for marking.
Saws - end and circular.
Hacksaw for metal.
metal anchors.
Trowel and grinder.

Moreover, you will need a dry mortar, a synthetic universal adhesive, a sealant, a reinforcing mesh made of fiberglass. The main material will be glued board or polyurethane, as well as insulation. Lumber should first be cut to size, then sanded, treated with an antiseptic and painted.

At the first stage of finishing the facade, glue insulation boards to the outer walls. If you want your house to be environmentally friendly, then the best material is foamed polymer. After that, select the grooves for the board in the plates. To cut the polymer, you should use a special hacksaw or, in extreme cases, a sharp knife. Initially, select the thickness of the board so that a sufficient layer of insulation remains under it. This will prevent the formation of unwanted cold bridges. Glued insulation boards should create a flat plane that does not have depressions and protrusions. This is due to the fact that subsequently an adhesive composition should be applied to it, and then let it grab. Then press the fiberglass mesh into the adhesive. It will serve as a reinforcing layer for plaster.

Nail false beams to the wall through the insulation layer. First, install the racks and beams, and then the braces. Fill the gaps between the board and the polystyrene foam with sealant. After the final crystallization of the glue, you can start plastering, and then painting in the desired color.

What builders need to know

Fachwerk-style facade decoration is applicable only for low-rise buildings. The width of the elements that imitate the power frame must be at least 15 cm, moreover, that minimum distance between posts - 60 cm. Frame posts can be mounted flush with the facade, or, conversely, they can protrude above the surface of the walls. False beams are fixed using the same method.

The visual division of the floors can be emphasized by two or three rows of beams arranged horizontally. As for window frames, they should have a fine binding. Facade doors for fachwerk should be deaf, without glazing. The overall picture of the style will not be balanced if there are few or, conversely, a lot of dark beams on a light wall. All technical elements of the house must be brought in accordance with the half-timbered style. The foundation should be lined with natural stone. The plastered surface of the house can be decorated, for example, floral ornament or emblems. The traditional fachwerk includes tracing the details of the frame with a bold black line. So, the beams will appear visually more massive and more reliable. If you decide to implement

Fachwerk decoration - how to transform the facade of the house with the help of DSP and boards

29 November, 2016
Specialization: master in construction drywall constructions, finishing works and laying of floor coverings. Installation of door and window blocks, facade finishing, installation of electrics, plumbing and heating - I can give detailed advice on all types of work.

Many people associate the half-timbered style with the charm of small towns. Western Europe. But if you wish, you can decorate your house in a detailed way. Read this review and you will see how simple and easy it is to create a corner of Bavaria in your yard.

Description of the workflow

In the original, the style involves the construction of a frame of thick timber and filling the space with insulation. We will use a modern solution that is suitable for any type of facade and can be done in a few days. The option I have considered is far from the only one, but the simplest and most reliable of all.

Stage 1 - collecting the necessary materials

Before starting work, you need to stock up on everything you need, the list of basic materials is presented in the table.

Material	Selection Guide
DSP	Cement particle board is a durable and reliable material, ideal for our purposes. It is easiest to work with sheets with a thickness of 12-16 mm, thicker elements are too heavy. In order not to carry a lot of weight during work, you can buy material in strips (as in the photo above) or cut it into small pieces
Board	With its help, we will imitate the frame, you can use ordinary wood, or you can use polyurethane elements. They imitate wood, but are much more reliable and durable. A polyurethane strip 12 cm wide and 2 meters long costs about 1000 rubles
Bar	The DSP will be mounted on a frame, which is constructed from a bar with a section of at least 50x50 mm, since the sheets are heavy. Dry material should be chosen so that the frame does not lead after assembly
insulation	To make the house warmer, the frame is laid thermal insulation material 3-5 cm thick. For frame structures, a thickness of 100 or more millimeters is needed. Best fit basalt wool, it is not afraid of moisture and retains high properties for at least 30 years
Windproof film	It is necessary if you will put insulation, but if the fastening will be done simply on the frame, then you can not put the film
fasteners	We will fix the plates with wood screws measuring 3.5x55 mm, the insulation can be fixed with fungi from 90 to 120 mm long. I prefer to mount the frame on hangers, with their help you can perfectly set each element at the right distance from the wall. The finishing board is fastened either with self-tapping screws 70 mm long or liquid nails
Dye	We need to paint both the DSP (exterior paint is required) and the board. Most often, the background is made light, and the elements of the frame are dark, such a contrasting combination is one of business cards fachwerk

Stage 2 - tool collection

When finishing the facade under fachwerk, the following devices are needed:

If the frame will be attached to the walls with dowels, a puncher with a drill of the required diameter is required;
A screwdriver is needed both for tightening self-tapping screws and for drilling holes in the DSP. Therefore, do not forget to stock up on nozzles and drills 3.5-4 mm (suitable for metal);

Slabs are cut using a grinder with a disc for concrete. Cutting boards and bars can be performed both with a power tool and a hand saw;

The plane is controlled by a level from 1 meter long, measurements and markings are performed using a tape measure, pencil and square.

Stage 3 - frame construction

First you need to make a solid and reliable base for finishing the facade. The instructions for this part of the work are as follows:

First of all, you need to check the surfaces with a level. Find out how even they are and if there are any noticeable height differences, if the difference is a few millimeters, then you can attach directly to the surface. If the irregularities are significant, then it is easier to use suspensions;
The direction of the racks can be any, I personally prefer the vertical option, but you can put it horizontally, and make a crate with jumpers. The distance between the posts should not be more than 50 cm. The location is selected so that the vertical joints of the sheets fall on the bar;
The hangers are fixed along the line of the racks at a distance of no more than 50 cm from each other. They are located perpendicular to the bar;

Nails are hammered into the wall or dowels with self-tapping screws are placed, a cord is pulled between them for a guide. After that, the bar is attached, everything is simple here: the suspensions are bent, the element is leveled and fixed with self-tapping screws. When working, do not forget to control the plane by applying the level to several racks;
If the wall is flat, then fastening is done directly to it. If necessary, slats or chips are placed under the bar;

Before installation, the bar must be processed antiseptic composition. Moreover, it is better to do this not by staining, but by dipping, constructing a trough of the required size from a film and boards.

Insulation is inserted between the frame elements. It is cut into pieces slightly wider than the distance between the bars in order to densely fill the space. Try to lay the material so that there are as few voids under the frame as possible;

A windproof film is laid on top of the insulation. It can be fixed with screws or a stapler. To provide the best protection heat insulator, the overlap at the joints should be at least 100 mm.

Stage 4 - fixing the DSP

Let's figure out how to attach DSP sheets to the frame:

First you need to measure the distance between the bars to determine the optimal width of the sheets. If the finished elements do not fit, then you need to mark them and cut them with a grinder. The work is dusty, so it is better to work in a respirator;

Then you need to drill holes, they are located in increments of 20 cm along the edges and 40 cm in the middle. The offset from the end must be at least 15 mm. The diameter of the holes should be no less than the thickness of the self-tapping screw, and preferably half a millimeter more;

At the preparation stage, treat the ends of the sheets with a strengthening primer. The primary application can be done when they are still in stacks, and the secondary application when you cut the elements.

When attaching sheets, you need to remember a simple rule: the gap between the elements should be 3-5 mm. While you are tightening the screws, two assistants must definitely hold the DSP in the required position. The fastener is screwed in so that the cap is recessed 1-2 mm below the surface level, so you close the fastening point and make it invisible;

When the fastening is completed, you can proceed to the last part of the work: filling the seams. For this, a special weather-resistant composition is used, it is sold in buckets and applied with a spatula. When filling the seams, be sure to cover the attachment points as well, in the end you will get a result, as in the photo below.

Stage 5 - painting and decorating

At this stage, the characteristic fachwerk facade decoration will be formed, the house will take on its final form before our eyes. The workflow is:

First of all, you need to apply a primer to the surface. It will strengthen the material and improve paint adhesion. The work is done with a roller, after applying the walls are left to dry completely;
The paint is applied with the same roller, the composition is thoroughly mixed before use. Most often, in one layer it is not possible to achieve a uniform color, so the staining is repeated again. The second layer can be applied only after the first has completely dried;

Half-timbered finish requires the same arrangement of elements along the facade

Boards are pre-painted in a dark color, after which measurements can be taken. According to the measurement results, the elements are marked and cut into pieces of the desired size. The main thing here is not to confuse anything and not to spoil the material, especially if you have polyurethane elements, because their price is high;

To give the facade an authentic look, you can artificially age the board by treating it with a grinder with a wire brush. It will remove the soft layers of wood and make the fibrous structure more embossed.

Finished elements are attached either with self-tapping screws (if you have a board) or liquid nails (if you have polyurethane). In the first case, holes are drilled in the board and DSP, in the second case, glue is applied to the element, and it is pressed tightly against the attachment point.

As you can see, decorating a half-timbered house with your own hands requires some effort, but as a result you will get an original and stylish house. It will stand out against the general background with its authenticity. The photo below shows all the stages of finishing, which I described above, so that you can see the difference.

You can go even simpler and fix the boards to an existing facade, this will freshen up the look of the house. You can also use this finish indoors, it’s even easier there, because it’s enough to paint the walls in a light shade and attach the board.

Conclusion

If you do everything as it is written in the article, you will achieve an excellent result. Making a half-timbered house is no more difficult than tiling or plastering it. The video in this article will help you better understand certain aspects of the work, and if you have questions, then write them in the comments.

If you want to express gratitude, add a clarification or objection, ask the author something - add a comment or say thanks!

Between all existing architectural trends, the German style attracts strong attention, which is often used in today's construction when decorating the facade parts of a building. This style is characterized by restraint and grace, uncomplicated forms.

Looking at such a facade, there is an unfeigned feeling of the fundamental nature of the house and home comfort. The demand for the German style is also greatly facilitated by the fact that it is permissible to arrange it even on a finished building. Recalling the diligence and scrupulousness of the Germans, we can say that a large amount of materials will not be needed to decorate the facade in the German style. The German style can be noted as very economical, only at the same time it is known for its rationality and originality of decoration.

How to make a facade in the German style.

Decoration of windows and doors. Conditions in this segment are quite considerable. First of all, you need to remember that the German-style front door is the “highlight” of the facade. She must attract attention and stand out from the crowd. German-style windows are traditionally rectangular, although in some cases they may be arched. In addition, a distinctive feature will be the formation of multi-section windows, when the glasses are interconnected by numerous jumpers. In addition, the windows are decorated with wooden shutters, which perform only a decorative function, giving the cottage a lived-in and equipped look.

Types of facades of houses: Gothic house and half-timbered houses.

A German-style cottage is fashionable, original, and elegant. Each building will be unique, but at the same time so recognizable!

The facade of the house is the first thing that guests and passers-by see. From exterior finish buildings largely depends on the opinion that will develop about its owners. Therefore, when planning construction, more and more people are guided not only by practicality, but also by beauty, giving preference to one or another architectural direction. A German-style house is an excellent solution for those who appreciate solidity, simplicity and elegance.

What buildings are popular in Bavaria and other parts of Germany? How to build such houses? Consider the nuances of the design of the facades of buildings in the German style.

Features of a German-style house

The Bavarian or German style of the house suggests accuracy and even some asceticism. external design. To his characteristic features relate:

lack of lush decorative elements;
the severity of the lines;
practicality;
use in the decoration of inexpensive materials;
calm colors.

Each element of the house must comply with these rules. Despite the apparent simplicity, while observing the traditions of the architecture of Western Europe, the building does not look unattractive. Country cottages in the German style resemble fairy-tale houses descended from the pages of fairy tales. This effect is enhanced by neat design. adjoining territory- trimmed lawns, ornamental porch plantings, hedges.

Walls and roof

When it comes to the traditional German style of the house, the most common building shape is a rectangle or square. The walls are made smooth and painted in discreet colors - white, sand, gray. A combination of dark wood (timber) and clay is popular, and the facade can also be decorated with polymer panels, cement-bonded particle boards or bricks. The basement is often trimmed with natural stone.

The roof of a Bavarian-style house is usually gable, without an attic and with wide overhangs. Among the acceptable colors are red, brown, green, blue shades and their variations. Sometimes several similar tones are combined in one coating.

The material for the roof is tile or natural slate (slate). If the house is two-story, under the roof there may be an attic with a fence made of tinted wood, a bay window or a balcony.

Windows and doors

The entrance group and windows, decorated in the German style, should attract attention. The door itself, as a rule, is wooden; in its upper part, glazing with lintels is made. A wooden or stone porch leads to the entrance to the building. Also, a spacious room can be located in front of the door.

Windows are usually rectangular or arched. Each of them consists of several square or rectangular sections, fastened with jumpers. Modern Bavarian style also allows panoramic glazing houses.

If this is combined with the general style of the facade, windows can be complemented by shutters. They perform decorative functions, creating bright accent and giving the house a rustic feel. Sometimes the shutters are covered with carvings and paintings.

half-timbered houses

German-style houses, the projects of which assume the presence of a visible timber frame, are called half-timbered. This type of architecture appeared in Germany in the 15th century and gradually gained popularity in other European countries.

The term fachwerk (fachwerk) means a frame structure. Such houses have a rigid frame of vertical, horizontal and diagonal beams. Initially, the space between the timber was filled with straw, branches and reeds mixed with clay. The frame elements were left open. The remaining surface was plastered, and wealthy citizens decorated the walls with carved wooden panels.

The use of wood as the main building material, spawned interesting feature half-timbered houses- each floor of the building protrudes above the previous one. This design allows rainwater to drain to the ground, protecting walls and foundations from excessive dampness.

Half-timbered houses showed themselves with the best side. The reliability of the technology is evidenced by the fact that in Europe you can still find buildings in this style, built more than 300 years ago.

Other benefits of fachwerk include:

construction speed;
high thermal insulation properties;
cheap materials;
ease of repair work.

But there are also disadvantages - wood needs to be treated against fungus and mold, materials are highly flammable, and forced ventilation is necessary. Given the disadvantages of frame houses, some owners resort to imitation half-timbered houses.

At the same time, the walls are erected from any modern materials, and the facade is decorated with polyurethane panels that give the impression of wooden beams. Thus, the decoration of the house in the German style will look natural, but the building will become more practical.

gothic houses

Gothic in Germany began to develop in the X-XI centuries under the influence of French architecture. german buildings had their own characteristics - strict geometric shapes (usually a rectangle), one or four high towers instead of two, more modest facade decoration, external resemblance to defensive fortresses.

The building material is usually brick or stone. The height of the building is at least 3 floors, the roof is made pointed, the windows are lancet and elongated. Roofing German gothic houses stands out in color, any contrasting combinations are possible - dark tiles and light walls, or vice versa.

Although this style may seem outdated, it is still popular, including in cottage construction. Vacation home in gothic style- a personal fortress, from which emanates reliability and antiquity. It will look especially organic in the bosom of nature - in a mountainous area or at the edge of a forest.

A house in the Bavarian style, whether it is a rustic half-timbered cottage or a sophisticated Gothic fortress, is a model German quality and practicality. You can be sure that buildings built using proven German technologies will serve more than one generation of owners and will be able to surprise guests with their unusual design.